Head-to-head · Best Impact Drivers

DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver vs Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless PBLID04

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.2 vs 3.8). The gap is mostly about Users needing high torque with moderate speed — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Impact Drivers

DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver

4.2

4 sources3 derived$319as of Aug 14

The DeWalt DCF860 delivers a substantial performance leap over its predecessor, offering 2500 in-lbs maximum torque and 3800 RPM top speed. It outperforms competitors like the Flex FX1371A and Milwaukee 2953 in driving tests, completing tasks faster than the DCF845. The tool features a compact design with a 4.8-inch head length and includes LED lighting for dark work environments. While it's more powerful, the increased weight of 2.7 lbs (bare) may be a consideration for some users.

Strengths

— Impressive performance boost over DCF845 with 675 in-lbs more torque
— Top speed reaches 3800 RPM (400 RPM increase)
— 3 speed modes with light function for dark environments

Watch-outs

— Weight is higher than DCF845 at 2.7 lbs (bare tool)
— No significant drawbacks mentioned but heavier weight may be a trade-off for some users

$319 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #4 in Best Impact Drivers

Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless PBLID04

3.8

3 sourcesall derived$94.99as of Aug 14

The Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless Impact Driver PBLID04 represents Ryobi's most powerful impact driver yet, delivering 3,400 RPMs and 2,300 in-lbs of torque. Performance testing showed a 47.5% improvement in driving screws and 54% faster nut breaking times compared to its predecessor. The tool features three speed modes and an Assist mode designed to prevent stripping while maintaining excellent ergonomics. Reviewers noted the tool's improved efficiency and handling, though one reviewer questioned whether the performance gains justified the price premium over the previous generation model.

Strengths

— Massive performance improvement over previous model with 17% increase in top speed
— Three speed modes plus Assist mode for preventing screw stripping
— Excellent ergonomics and one-handed bit insertion/ejection

Watch-outs

— No significant drawbacks mentioned in the review
— Poor trigger control and responsiveness

$94.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver

The DeWalt DCF860 delivers 2,500 in-lbs of torque, which is more than the Milwaukee 2953-20 and Ryobi PBLID04, but less than the Milwaukee 2853-22 XC Kit. It's faster than the Milwaukee 2953-20 with 3800 RPM, but lacks the tri-beam LED lighting and one-hand bit insertion. Compared to the Makita XDT19, it's more powerful but heavier, and unlike the Porter-Cable PCCK607LB, it offers better torque control and performance in demanding applications.

Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless PBLID04

The Ryobi PBLID04 delivers 2,300 in-lbs of torque and 3,400 RPM, outperforming the Milwaukee 2953-20 and Makita XDT19 in speed but falling short of the Milwaukee 2853-22 XC Kit's torque. It features superior ergonomics and one-handed operation compared to the DeWalt DCF860 and Porter-Cable PCCK607LB, but has poor trigger control and responsiveness compared to the Milwaukee models. It's more expensive than the DEWALT 20V Max Kit but less powerful than the Milwaukee 2853-22 XC Kit.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver	Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless PBLID04
No-Load Speed	3800 RPM	3,400 RPM
Impact Rate	4500 IPM	4,200 IPM
Max Torque	2500 in-lbs	2,300 in-lbs
Weight	2.7 lbs (bare tool)	2.5 lbs (bare tool), 3.8 lbs (with 4.0Ah Edge battery)
Chuck Size	1/4 in. hex	1/4 in. hex
Motor Type	Brushless	Brushless
Chuck Type	1/4 In. Quick-connect Hex Chuck	1/4" hex quick connect collet
Speeds	3	3
Voltage	20 volts	18 volts
Battery	—	Ryobi 18V battery
Torque Control	—	Variable speed trigger

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